News
Sheikh Gumi Supports Tax Reform Bills but Urges Changes to VAT for Fairness
Islamic cleric and scholar Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed Tax Reform Bills, which have faced strong opposition from northern governors, lawmakers, and traditional rulers.
The cleric described the bills as beneficial for all Nigerians, although he called for a review of the contentious Value Added Tax (VAT) component.
The Tax Reform Bills have sparked heated debates since they passed the second reading in the Senate last Thursday.
Northern leaders, including governors and members of the legislature, have expressed concern that the reforms could disproportionately impact their region.
Many traditional rulers have also voiced their apprehension, citing fears of economic imbalance and potential hardship for the already vulnerable populations in the North.
Addressing the matter on Tuesday, Sheikh Gumi emphasized that, while the tax bills are a step in the right direction for Nigeria’s economic progress, the contentious VAT provisions need careful reconsideration.
He stated that reviewing the VAT structure could alleviate the concerns of northern stakeholders without undermining the broader benefits of the proposed reforms.
In his words, “The Tax Reform Bills are fundamentally a good package for the nation.
However, the Value Added Tax element, which has raised significant concerns, should be reassessed to ensure it does not unfairly burden any region or group of people.”
Since Uber exited Nigeria, rumours have been circulating over why the company left the country. One of the claims suggested that FAAN was part of the reason for the exit.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has now addressed the rumours and claims of its involvement in Uber’s decision to leave Nigeria.
FAAN said it could not speak for Uber’s decision, noting that the company likely had its own economic and regulatory considerations for leaving Nigeria.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, said “I can’t speak to Uber’s exit from Nigeria. I am sure they have their own economic and regulatory decisions as to why they chose to exit.”
Governor of Akwa Ibom, Pastor Umo Eno, reflected on a career choice he made when he had no choice back then.
The governor recalled how he made not less than ₦10 million in a month from selling bread and akara.
He stated “I started selling Akara and bread. Back then, I was doing Akara Burger — we opened the bread and put Akara inside for you. I made not less than ₦10 million in a month.”
Many Nigerians reacted and wondered if his reflection was in response to what the First Lady advised Nigerians earlier about selling corn.
Uber makes headlines in Nigeria as it announces that it is leaving the country. The transportation and logistics business has been in operation in Nigeria since 2014 and suddenly announced its exit on September 2, 2026.
This started with users receiving a message from the team stating that the company would be leaving Nigeria, and the announcement quickly began trending as many Nigerians started talking about Uber’s exit.
Uber shared “We are writing to share some difficult news. After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026.
“This wasn’t a decision we made lightly, because it will have a real impact on our teammates and friends who have worked hard for Uber. It’s important to say that these changes are about how we’re organised and what we’re prioritising, not about anyone’s contributions to Uber, which we will always value,” Khosrowshahi said.
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